Understatement Meaning
/ˌʌndəˈsteɪtmənt/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounA figure of speech whereby something is made to seem smaller or less important than it actually is, either through phrasing or lack of emphasis, often for ironic effect.
nounAn instance of such phrasing or lack of emphasis; an incomplete statement.
Sentence Examples
That's something of an understatement.
That would be an understatement.
To say the movie was interesting is a major understatement.
CEFR Practice Quiz
Calling the massive earthquake a small tremor is truly a huge ____.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
To say that the project was a success is a bit of an ____, as it was actually a massive achievement today.
Word Origin & History
From under- + statement or understate + -ment.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"And that mode of expression is very demurring and self-deprecating. Victorian English was all about understatement."
— 2004, Rowan Manahan, Where's My Oasis?:, page 158:
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CEFR Practice Quiz
Calling the massive earthquake a small tremor is truly a huge ____.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
To say that the project was a success is a bit of an ____, as it was actually a massive achievement today.